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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

Explore tales that carry Africa’s wisdom, courage, and humor. From river spirits to trickster animals, every story holds a lesson.

From hearty stews to fragrant grains, experience traditional African recipes and the history behind every dish.

Ancient African proverbs and modern interpretations — explore the wisdom passed down through generations.

Dive into Africa’s kingdoms, independence stories, and modern milestones that shape the continent today.

How to Make Shito Ghanaian Hot Pepper Sauce

Shito Ghanaian pepper sauce and hot sauce is a favorite condiment to serve with any number of American and African dishes.


Hot peppers names clockwise from bottom left are habaneros, hot Portugal, hot lemon, serrano, poblano, cajun bell and  jalapeno.
Shito Ghanaian pepper sauce and hot sauce is enjoyed with vegetables, fish, meat or poultry, it is also ideal with yams recipes, green plantains, and potatoes. In other words, Shito Ghanaian pepper sauce and hot sauce is perfect for just about any food dish. Shito is the best artisan small-batch hot pepper sauce you will ever make.

How to Make Shito Ghanaian Pepper Sauce

Grilled whole fish with mild and hot peppers

African recipes by African Gourmet

Shito Ghanaian pepper sauce is made with hot peppers, shrimp, fish, tomato paste and seasonings to create Ghana’s most beloved hot sauce.

Prep time: 10 min Cook time: 15 min Total time: 25 min

Ingredients:

2 cups tomato puree

10 dried hot chilies

1 tablespoon shrimp paste

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon cumin

1/4 cup olive oil

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a food processor and mix well. In a medium saucepan simmer 15 minutes on low. Add sauce to soups, stews or use as a sauce over seafood.




How Are You Feeling Today? Find an African Proverb or Story to Match Your Mood

How Are You Feeling Today?

Type or tap a mood. Your storyteller returns a proverb, mini-folktale, recipe, cooking activity, and a cultural note.

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Folklore Meets Science

Folklore Meets Science
African stories that explain the universe

African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

African Gourmet Newsletter

Light African snack spicy popcorn

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Includes a light snack idea every month 🍊

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions